Japan-Moldova Foreign Ministers’ Meeting

On July 2, commencing at 7:10 p.m. for approximately 75 minutes, Mr. Taro Kono, Minister for Foreign Affairs, held a Foreign Ministers’ meeting over dinner with H.E. Mr. Tudor ULIANOVSCHI, Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration of the Republic of Moldova. The overview of the meeting is as follows.

1. Opening remarks

Minister Kono confirmed the importance of the fundamental values such as the rule of law and democracy and stated that Japan will continue to support Moldova’s reform efforts in seeking integration into Europe. In response, Minister Ulianovschi demonstrated his recognition that Moldova’s integration into Europe is irreversible, and then expressed his gratitude for the development support from Japan to date. In addition, Minister Ulianovschi stated that he hopes to advance the cooperation between the two countries together with Minister Kono.

2. Bilateral relations

Minister Kono expressed his hope for further development of the investment environment in Moldova in order to attract investments from Japanese companies in Moldova. Furthermore, he explained that the Government of Japan had decided to introduce visa exemption for the diplomatic and official passport holders of Moldova, for which Minister Ulianovschi expressed his gratitude. The two ministers agreed to hold political dialogue regularly between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of both countries and to strengthen collaboration between the two governments.
Moreover, the two ministers agreed that they will continue cooperation within the framework of “GUAM+Japan” cooperation.

3. Regional and international situation

The two ministers exchanged views and agreed to collaborate closely regarding various issues, including United Nations reform and the North Korea issue.